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University of Northern Colorado

Study Abroad Handbook TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Letter to Future Bears Abroad 2

Study Abroad Definitions 3

A Note to Parents 4

Survival Checklist 5

Health and Safety Matters 7 Health Safety Legal Requirements Abroad

Getting Ready to Go 12

Passport Visa Packing

Transportation Communication Money Other Considerations

You and Your Destination 18

Culture Adjustment Tips for Cultural Immersion Cultural Competencies Orientations

You and UNC 17

Academic FYI Financial Aid and Money Matters Study Abroad Fees Important Contacts Program Withdrawal

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Dear Future Bears Abroad, The Center for International Education’s Study Abroad & Exchange Office would like to congratulate you on

making the decision to study abroad. The study abroad experience can be one of the most rewarding

experiences of your college career. When you arrive at your destination, you will be faced with unforeseen

challenges. Overcoming those challenges will make you stronger, more independent, confident, and flexible.

Your development in these areas and others will make you a more well-rounded individual, a more culturally

competent citizen, and will instill a global perspective.

Your experiences while abroad will shape you in more ways than you can anticipate. However, before you leave,

it is important to prepare for your experience. Experiential learning is the biggest part of the adventure! The

goal of the Study Abroad Handbook is to enhance your experience by providing you with an overview of the

information you will need. Utilizing the information in this handbook, and the website links provided, will

provide you with many of the resources you will need to stay healthy and safe while abroad. I encourage you to

dive into this new adventure by learning as much as possible about your host country and culture before you

depart.

We look forward to walking alongside you as you prepare to depart, supporting you while abroad, celebrating

your accomplishments, and hearing your stories upon your return to UNC.

Sincerely,

Brandy Tackett

Director, Study Abroad & Exchange Programs

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Study Abroad Terms and Definitions

Below are the most commonly used terms and definitions that you will find useful throughout this handbook.

Education Abroad – Education that occurs outside the participant’s home country. May include volunteer and internship opportunities that are largely driven by learning goals.

Study Abroad Program – An education abroad enrollment opportunity designed to result in academic credit.

Exchange Program – A program involving reciprocal movement (Exchange) of participants between two universities.

Direct Program – Program involving non-reciprocal movement of participants between two universities.

Affiliate Provider – An organization that specializes in sending students abroad. Students pay affiliate provider directly.

Faculty-Led Program (FLSA) – A study abroad program directed by a faculty member(s) from the home campus who accompanies students abroad while teaching a course.

Field Experience or Internship – Program with pedagogical focus on an activity that serves the needs of a community. Students usually apply for credit through UNC campus.

Verification of Enrollment (VOE) – Form that confirms your official enrollment in courses at your host university. Completed after you arrive at the host university.

Office of Financial Aid (OFA) – Office that provides information and support for questions about financial aid assistance, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

Study Abroad Advisor (SAA) – Staff member who advises students before, during, and after their education abroad experience.

HIPPA – Contact form used to release medical information to designated individuals in the event of an emergency.

FERPA – Legal form specifying to whom the Center for International Education may release academic information.

Federal Pell Grant – Government funds distributed based on students’ financial need as indicated by FAFSA.

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A NOTE TO PARENTS

As parents of UNC Bears Abroad, you and your student are about to embark on an exciting and educationally enriching adventure. There will be challenges, but your student will mature and grow as they adapt to a new culture and learn to thrive in a unique environment.

Study abroad is a special experience for parents and students alike. Not only does study abroad supplement a student’s academic experience, but it can also enhance their resume, equip them with language skills, and teach cultural competency. These are invaluable skills that can set students apart in today’s competitive market as they seek higher education, or a career after university.

Because we understand that higher education is a commitment of both finances and time, the University of Northern Colorado and our partner institutions and affiliates strive to make the study abroad experience affordable and intuitive. Depending on the program, cost of attendance will remain very similar to UNC tuition. Federal and State need-based finical aid often applies to the study abroad experience and air fare prices will vary. However, both student and parent can rest assured that with advanced planning, credits completed abroad can easily transfer back to UNC and graduation date will not be affected.

The Study Abroad Office is here for your student both as they prepare to depart, and once they arrive in the host country. Make sure to develop guidelines regarding contact while your student is abroad, talk through financial expectations and any health or academic concerns. You may also want to update your passport, and learn a little about the country your student will be studying in.

Before your student leaves, they will be required to construct a budget for their time abroad. They will engage in course planning and will be provided with health and safety resources. Students will attend a pre-departure orientation (parents may attend as well), and while abroad will have regular contact with our office. Upon return to UNC campus, the Study Abroad Office is available as students readjust to Colorado life. There are multiple ways for your student to utilize their new experiences, as well as opportunities to give back to their community once they have returned.

Click here for a few resources that might help you support your student while abroad. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.

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The pre-departure paperwork and meetings are not meant to be stressful. Here is a basic checklist for you to help ensure you are well prepared for departure. Be aware of deadlines for important things like your passport and visa.

Obtain your passport and visa. You need your passport before you can apply for your visa, so don’t wait until the last minute to apply for your passport. Center for International Education is a designated US Passport Office. Appointments are easy to make, and the staff look forward to assisting you with your passport needs.

Meet regularly with your Study Abroad Advisor. Plan to meet with your advisor 3-4 times before you depart.

• Prepare the Course Approval Form • Attend the Pre-Departure Orientation(s) • Calculate Study Abroad Budget Estimate • Provide a copy of your passport • Provide a copy of your itinerary • Review and sign the UNC Risk Waiver Form

Review this Study Abroad Handbook (which you are doing right now. Good job!)

Survival Checklist

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Meet with a Financial Aid Counselor to understand which scholarships, loans, and grants can be applied toward your term abroad.

Get any vaccinations that are required or strongly recommended for the country/ies you are visiting (these may be time sensitive). Visit the CDC webpage for more information. Click for local clinics and prices.

Photocopy important documents, such as your passport, visa, credit cards, insurance card, etc. Take one copy with you abroad and keep in a secure place and leave one copy with a trusted individual at home.

Research the country in which you will be studying! Know the history, type of government, cuisine, and any recent political issues.

Speak with your next of kin about what will happen in emergency situations and how you will pay various bills while abroad. You may need to add someone to your bank account or assign a power of attorney.

Contact your bank and credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling abroad. Determine rates and fees for international usage of your cards.

Have directions ready for your hostel, hotel, school, dormitory—wherever you are going directly from the airport – in both English and the host language, if possible.

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Health

The health and well-being of UNC students while abroad is our main priority. Planning and preparing for healthcare are essential and somewhat different than here in the U.S. When receiving care, you may be expected to pay in full at the time of service and in cash. For insurance claims and reimbursements, secure translated, itemized receipts and/or descriptions of the treatment you received. For students participating in a UNC Exchange or UNC Direct program, read a little more about UNC’s travel insurance plan while abroad. Some countries, such as Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, and New Zealand among others, have national health care systems that require enrollment. If studying abroad in one of these countries, students will be required to purchase the host country’s health insurance in addition to the UNC travel insurance.

Health and Safety Matters: Staying healthy, happy, and safe

There are many things to consider and accomplish prior to your overseas program departure. The following are a few of the most important related to your health:

1) Ensure you have a printed copy of your health insurance card. 2) Review general and country-specific health information available at:

U.S. Department of State: www.studentsabroad.state.gov Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov/travel/ World Health Organization: www.who.int/ith/en/

3) IMPORTANT: You are required to register your travel with the U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

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UNC Health Insurance Policy The University of Northern Colorado currently uses GeoBlue as our international insurance provider. I already have health insurance. Do I need to obtain UNC health insurance? If your current health insurance does not meet UNC’s required minimum coverage, then you will be required to enroll in the UNC international travel insurance. Also, while participating in study abroad, you are allowed to waive the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Health Issues We recommend that you consult your primary physician, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a travel clinic, and your host country’s embassy website regarding health issues for international travel.

• Click here for a handy reference guide of vaccines in that may be obtained in the area. • Know what you are allergic to. • Bring the phone number and email address of your U.S. health care provider with you. • If you have any preexisting health concerns, carry a letter from your primary physician, describing the

medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic name of prescribed drugs. Depending on the language, the Study Abroad Office may be able to assist students in securing translations for the names of medications/illnesses.

• IMPORTANT: Make sure to take a copy of your prescription(s) and leave medications in their original clearly labeled containers.

• IMPORTANT: Check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting to make sure any required medications are not restricted or banned.

Traveler Health Kit Please visit the CDC’s website for a list of useful supplies to bring from home. Keep in mind that some medications may be banned in specific countries.

Safety General Safety Information

• Register your travel plans with the US Department of State before you leave (REQUIRED). • Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Find out which areas of the city are not safe. • Keep all important documents, such as your passport, in a safe place. Report stolen documents

immediately. If your passport is stolen, inform the nearest United States Embassy immediately. • Dress mindfully and consider local customs regarding attire. • Stay away from political demonstrations and unruly crowds.

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• Know the emergency number(s) in your host country—it is not 911! • Stay in communication with our office regarding travel advisories and general safety. This includes checking your Bearmail regularly and responding to emergency check-ins. • Driving while abroad is discouraged. • Do not hitchhike, even if it is common in your host country.

• We advise against traveling alone, but if you do travel on your own, you should inform program officials of your itinerary and how you can be reached.

• Limit alcohol consumption or abstain completely. Don’t engage in drug use of any kind. This will protect you legally and physically.

TIPS: o Go out with friends and look after one another until you get home. o Only drink beverages you open yourself. o If someone offers to buy you a drink, watch them order and

pour it and carry it yourself. o Pay attention to unusual taste or appearance (foamy, salty,

unexplained residue). o Every year, several hundred Americans are arrested on drug

charges. Persons caught with illegal drugs in a foreign country are subject to the laws of that country.

KEEP IN MIND: Most study abroad programs have a zero-tolerance for drug use. Students using recreational drugs will be dismissed from the program. If you are arrested abroad on a drug charge, the United States Consular Officer can do very little to assist you.

The Bureau of Consular Affairs Office of Overseas Citizen Services, a branch of the United States Department of State, is responsible for protecting the interests of United States citizens abroad and may be reached toll free at 1-888-407-4747 (from within the USA) and 1-202-501-4444 (from outside the USA). Discrimination Issues Abroad UNC does not tolerate discrimination on the part of its member institutions or participants; however, many forms of prejudice do exist in many countries. When dealing with such issues, keep your own cultural assumptions in mind before jumping to conclusions. It is possible that actions or questions that upset you may simply reflect the people’s curiosity about you and your country—keep an open mind. Should extreme incidents arise, speak to your host International Office; if this does not resolve the issue, contact the Study Abroad Director at CIE (+1-970-351-2396, Brandy.Tackett@unco.edu).

Don’t Drink. Don’t Do Drugs.

Call Your Grandma.

Q & A

WHATS THE SINGLE GREATEST RISK FACTOR FOR STUDY ABROAD STUDENTS?

EXCESSIVE DRINKING

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Natural Disasters If a natural disaster were to occur in your program location, check with your on-site coordinator or international office to determine the safety protocol and procedures you should follow. Contact your family and our office ASAP and let us know you are safe (study.abroad@unco.edu). If we are unable to reach you, we will contact the person you designated on your Emergency Contact form and your host school. Political Instability If you are in a politically unstable country, or area, or should your host country become unstable while you’re abroad, avoid taking part in protests, public demonstrations, or other gatherings even if you support the cause. Public protests often turn dangerous and the political/police response varies from country to country.

Our office may contact you as conditions in your host country warrant. It is recommended that you remain knowledgeable about conditions in your host country and other countries where you intend to travel. For up-to-date information, visit: www.travel.state.gov.

Crime In the event you or someone you care about are victims of a crime while abroad, you are strongly encouraged to take immediate action and seek the support of resources in your host country and UNC.

1. Utilize resources at your host institution for assistance. Connect with the International Office. 2. Contact UNC Counseling Center or ASAP for additional support and information while abroad. 3. Get medical attention. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risks of STDs and

pregnancy. To preserve forensic evidence, ask the hospital to conduct a rape kit exam. If you think you have been drugged, ask for a urine test as well.

4. Report rape to law enforcement authorities. 5. Report the act or crime:

a. Title IX (in cases of discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct) b. UNC’s Clery Officer (in cases of most types of crime, including assault, theft, hate crimes, etc)

Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Sexual harassment abroad is a particularly difficult area because of the extreme variance in acceptable culture-based behavior. Additionally, there exist different social and legal responses to such behavior. Thus, sexual harassment when abroad can be a difficult scenario to deal with. For resources and support, please see the section above.

Legal Requirements Abroad

When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to local laws. Develop a cultural and political awareness of your area to avoid inadvertent misunderstandings and political difficulties.

• Deal only with authorized outlets when you exchange money. • Don’t assume what is legal in the U.S. is also legal in other countries. Adhere to local laws strictly. The

penalties you risk are severe.

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UNC Academic Policies While Abroad As a participant in a UNC education abroad program, you are subject to the UNC Student Code of Conduct. Likewise, you are subject to the UNC Academic Integrity and Honor Code while abroad/away.

While abroad you are responsible for attending classes, scheduled activities, and for completing assigned work. Failure to participate fully in any program may constitute academic misconduct and result in dismissal from the program. You should understand that you are to remain fully enrolled while abroad and that any exceptions must be discussed with the study abroad director and your academic advisor immediately.

Any reports that a student is in violation with any of these policies will be forwarded to UNC’s Dean of Student’s Office. If your personal conduct or academic integrity jeopardize participation in your program, you will be required to depart from the program early. Keep in mind that you will be responsible for any and all costs associated with your withdrawal, as well as resolving your enrollment status. While the Study Abroad Office may assist, it is ultimately your responsibility to reconcile.

Quiz Yourself

• What is the single greatest risk factor for most students who study abroad? • Is 911 the universal emergency number? • Am I required to purchase travel insurance through UNC before I go abroad?

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Passport Information How long does it take to get a passport? After application, it may take 6-8 weeks for you to receive your passport. Expedited passports may only take 2-4 weeks, but additional fees apply. You MUST have a passport before you apply for a visa. Where are the closest passport acceptance facilities? The Center for International Education is a designated passport application center. Please visit our website for more information and to schedule a passport appointment: CIE Passport Office. Greeley and Evans Post Offices (USPS) will also process passport applications. For details and instructions on scheduling an appointment, visit USPS.com. Keeping your Passport Safe After you have received your passport, make several copies of it and other identification cards (such as student visa and health insurance card). Give one set of these copies to a trusted individual, send a scanned copy to the CIE office, and then take the other set with you abroad.

Losing your Passport Losing your passport by accident or theft is serious. If you should lose your passport, you need to contact the nearest U.S. Consulate immediately. You can find a list of U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world at http://usembassy.state.gov/. It is also recommended you program the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate into your local cell phone should you need their assistance.

GETTING READY TO GO: Important to-dos prior to departure

TIP: To Avoid Complications, Apply for Passport and Visa Early

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Visa Information What is a visa? Do I need it? A visa is an official document that allows you to enter a country for a specified purpose and period of time. Check with your program sponsor to see if you are required to apply for a visa and to learn more about the visa application requirements. Depending on the country, the visa application process can take up to three months to complete. Start the visa application process as early as possible. Do not forget that you must submit a valid passport along with your visa application. If you do not have a passport, you need to take care of this first! Remember, it is your responsibility to comply with the visa requirements of your host country. Information on visa requirements may be found on the visa quick check webpage or NAFSA web resources. UNC Policy on Visas While the UNC Study Abroad Office staff can provide students with general visa information and resources, it is the sole responsibility of the student to apply for their own visa and provide all supplemental documents mandated by the Embassy or Consulate of their host country/countries. UNC Study Abroad Office staff cannot advise on visas in any official capacity

Packing

Review your country-specific information for suggestions on what to pack. Also check with any airlines you will be flying for the number of checked/carry-on bags, weight allowances, and dimensions of luggage, as well as any security restrictions for both carry-on and checked baggage. Be sure to check these restrictions for every airline that you will be traveling with for the duration of your trip, as the restrictions may vary between airlines. Packing Tips

• Pack only the essentials. • You may also want to bring a few unique items from home to show others

or share as gifts. • Do not take bedding and towels. Buy them there and leave them there. • Consider climate and hemisphere differences (Is July winter or summer in

your host country?) • Google is a great resource for packing. You can also drop by the Study Abroad office and talk to a Peer

Advisor about packing suggestions.

Pack Light Ask yourself: what

items are essential?

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Transportation

Airfare to Destination To find the cheapest fare, shop around and purchase your ticket early. You may want to purchase insurance for your ticket in case you need to change your dates of travel. Check out a few of the Study Abroad Team’s favorite ticket resources

Communication Abroad

E-mail is generally available at host institutions, universities, and internet cafés around the world. Internet

communication is typically easy and inexpensive. Pay-as-you-go phones, or sim cards, are relatively inexpensive in most countries and often do not require contracts or minimum usage agreements. With Family and Friends You might also look into international rates and plans offered through your current cell phone provider, or alternate ways to call home. Students who have already studied abroad in your host country are also a great information resource. With the Center for International Education

The Center for International Education will be your main point of contact for any questions related to study abroad. You can contact us by phone at +1-970-351-2396 or by email at Study.Abroad@unco.edu. You can also stay in touch via social media: @uncoglobal

Money Abroad

When traveling, your budget becomes your bestie. Talk with other students who have been where you are going. Review travel guides like Lonely Planet and Let’s Go, to estimate costs .

A few Money Matter Suggestions

• Nerd Wallet is packed with useful money tips concerning credit and debit cards especially for travelers.

• The Study Abroad Blog has useful banking and money tips for those adventuring abroad.

• Google is also a good resource regarding study abroad money matters

Stay in Touch

• WhatsApp • Viber • Skype • Snail Mail

Flight Websites

• Kayak • StudentUniverse • Skyscanner • Cheapflights • Google Flights

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Important Details

Power of Attorney You might consider designating an individual, usually a parent/guardian/support person, to take care of banking or financial aid matters on your behalf while you are abroad. Find out what the proper procedures are and make these arrangements before you depart. Taxes in your Home Country STUDENTS STUDYING ABROAD SPRING TERM OR ACADEMIC YEAR: TAKE NOTE! You may need to arrange to have tax forms sent to you or have taxes paid for you, while you are abroad. Be sure to know what your tax responsibilities are and how to comply while you are away. Voting Most American citizens living or studying outside of the United States are eligible to participate in federal elections via absentee ballot. You may also be eligible to vote in state primaries, run-off elections, and special elections that occur throughout the year. First, you must register to vote with your local election officials; and remember to take the time to request an absentee ballot well in advance of your trip. For more information and to complete an FPCA, visit here. Request an absentee ballot.

Quiz Yourself

• What is power of attorney, and why would you need it? • How will you pay taxes while abroad? • Are there any elections you need to vote absentee for?

Other Considerations

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Cultural Adjustment

In addition to all the practical details, remember to mentally prepare. One way to do this is by familiarizing yourself with cultural adjustment shock. (Don’t worry—it’s exciting!)

Stages of Cultural Adjustment Cultural adjustment is a normal part of any travel adventure. As you adapt to a new way of living life, it is normal to experience a broad range of emotions. Most students will experience four phases within the cultural adjustment process.

• Stage 1: Initial Euphoria You have just arrived, and

you are excited to discover and explore. • Stage 2: Culture Shock

After a few weeks, the differences you initially found exciting may become frustrating. You may feel homesick. Be patient with yourself as you move through this phase. It is only temporary.

• Stage 3: Cultural Adjustment While you may still be dealing with some adjustment issues, you are beginning to adapt. Your perspective is changing. Hang in there.

• Stage 4: Feeling at Home Your host country begins to feel like a second home. You now have a great deal of confidence and experience. You have made friends, have favorite restaurants, and are learning the local language. You may feel a little sad about saying goodbye to the people and places in your host country.

You and Your Destination Understanding and adjusting to culture

Figure 1: Retrieved from: http://medwaystudents.blogspot.com/2017/10/culture-shock.html

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Some Methods to Manage Culture Shock

Tips for Cultural Immersion & Adjustment

Rather than just seeing the sites and taking photos, choose to richly experience your host culture. Here are a few tips:

• Research the history and current events of your host country and city. • Practice your language skills without being afraid of making mistakes. • Buy a journal/keep a blog. You will cherish these memories. • Bring pictures of your friends, family and pets to share with new friends. • Check out the book and website “Ethnowise” by Dr. Michael Kimball for more suggestions and tips.

Orientations

Students are required to attend a Pre-Departure Orientation organized by the Study Abroad Office. Most students will attend two mandatory orientations where you will be provided with important information and meet other students who are studying abroad. Orientation is required for ALL students studying abroad through UNC. If students choose not to attend the orientation, they will be assessed a fee through their Ursa. This fee may be waived in the event of a pre-approved absence (work, illness, class). For more information, or for an approved absence, contact your study abroad advisor.

Quiz Yourself

• Is pre-departure orientation required? • What are the four stages of cultural adjustment?

Leave your comfort zone

behind

Try new foods Say yes to a new experience

Establish good sleep patterns

Ask for help Exercise Be curious & ask lots of Questions

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Academic FYI and Study Abroad

Enrollment at UNC While Abroad UNC students studying abroad remain registered at UNC while participating in their approved international program. The type of program you are enrolled in abroad will affect:

• Use of institutional, state, and federal financial aid • Pre-approval of coursework and transfer work • Registration at UNC (‘placeholder’ course) • Recommendations on program options and funding/scholarship

resources • International travel insurance requirement

Enrollment at UNC While Abroad While abroad, you are required to take a course load equivalent to 12 (or more) U.S. credits during the semester. Although final registration for courses abroad may take place before or after arrival in your host country, all students must complete a Course Planning Form prior to departure. The Study Abroad & Exchange Office will provide you with specific instructions regarding the approval of credit for study abroad. Take your academic advisor’s contact information with you. You will need this information if you must take courses not listed on your Course Planning Form. It is strongly recommended to bring back all syllabi, reading lists, papers, and exams (when possible) to UNC in case you need to obtain retroactive course approval.

You and UNC Academics and finances

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Credit Transfer Policies Coursework is eligible for transfer to UNC provided the grade earned is equivalent to C- or higher. Coursework taken on a pass/fail basis will only transfer if there is a credit value attached to the course, AND there is grade indicating a “Pass”. Grades earned while on a study abroad program are not calculated into your UNC GPA. If you obtain approval using the Study Abroad Course Planning Form, a course can fulfill a specific requirement in your major, minor, or LAC list. Otherwise, transfer credits from abroad to UNC will be registered as university elective credits. All course selections must be approved by your advisor prior to departure. FYI: Transcripts from Study Abroad • If your official transcript from your time abroad is mistakenly sent to you and not directly to UNC, please

do not open it as this will invalidate it. • International transcripts can take between 2-5 months to be received and processed. • Grades from international transcripts are not factored into your GPA. • Transfer credits can be checked in Ursa under the Student tab --> unofficial transcripts, or in DegreeWorks.

Studying Abroad Senior year Students entering their final year at UNC (within 12 months of expected graduation date) must meet with the Study Abroad Director AND seek approval from their Academic Advisor and/or department before pursuing a study abroad program. Students who complete an application and fail to notify or meet with the Study Abroad Director and their Academic Advisor may be withdrawn from their program and forfeit their Administration Fee.

Financial Aid & Registrar’s Office

Main Contacts: Located in Campus Commons

Justin Davis

Financial Aid Counselor

(970) 351-4862

ofa@unco.edu

Susan Wheeler

Transfer Specialist

(970) 351-4862

transfereval@unco.edu

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Financial Aid Eligibility For the financial aid recipient, this privilege is one with responsibilities. The following will explain those responsibilities and provide a clear understanding of the process used to award financial aid to study abroad participants. The Office of Financial Aid (OFA) determines your aid package. Most financial aid may be used to finance your study abroad experience. To receive financial aid, you must complete a Study Abroad Budget Estimate Form with your Study Abroad Advisor, then meet with a Financial Aid Counselor to review the form. You will work with your Study Abroad Advisor to estimate your budget and will need to have this budget form signed by your Study Abroad advisor before taking it to the OFA. Scholarships awarded outside of UNC (private scholarships) may be used upon approval of the scholarship donor. Contact individual scholarship donors for confirmation. To receive financial aid, students must adhere to all deadlines, policies, and procedures of the Office of Financial Aid. Your responsibilities abroad include:

• You must make satisfactory academic progress towards a degree as defined by the University of Northern Colorado.

• You cannot postpone your Intent to Graduate to study abroad and receive financial aid. Participation in this case is at your own expense, and only with approval from the Study Abroad Director and your degree program (department and/or Academic Advisor).

• You are required to notify us within five business days if you withdraw from your program and complete a Withdrawal Form.

• You are required to provide official transcripts to the University of Northern Colorado for evaluation upon completion of coursework. Failure to do this will prevent you from being eligible for financial aid for subsequent semesters.

• You must reapply for financial aid for the year of your return to the University of Northern Colorado. NOTE: Academic Year and Spring semester students: Remember to complete your renewal FAFSA on the web at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Receiving Financial Aid While Abroad To receive your financial aid while abroad, follow these steps: BEFORE DEPARTURE

1) Accept federal financial aid awards through Ursa and sign Master Promissory Note (if applicable) 2) Complete Study Abroad Budget Estimate Form and meet with Office of Financial Aid (OFA) 3) Set up direct deposit through UNC Card Office

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ONCE ABROAD 4) Complete the Verification of Enrollment (VOE) Form and email to study.abroad@unco.edu 5) Once the VOE is received and processed, the OFA will release aid

a. Allow 5-7 business days for the VOE to be processed and financial aid to be released 6) Aid will pay any charges to your UNC bill first, then any excess aid will be deposited directly

to your personal bank account (designated on your direct deposit form – see #3 above)

IMPORTANT: Payments to your host institution or Affiliate Provider are often due before financial aid is released. You will need to pay attention since your financial aid will not be available when most of these payments are due. Aid is usually not released until you have been on site (at host university) for at least two weeks. It is your responsibility to notify your university or program and to complete any payment deferral forms. If you have questions about payment deferral, contact your Affiliate Provider ASAP. Financial Aid Suspension UPON RETURN TO UNC You will be placed on financial aid suspension upon returning from your study abroad program. This occurs due to differences in transcript processing. Transcripts from abroad are sent to UNC after on-campus grades have been processed. Thus, the computer system issues financial aid suspension letters to students who have not made adequate progress toward their degrees. The system does not recognize study abroad students when issuing these letters. Once transcripts have been received from abroad, your grades will be entered, and you will be removed from financial aid suspension. Once removed from aid suspension, your financial aid will be dispersed as normal. However, because some transcripts can arrive months after your study abroad program has ended, you should request the following BEFORE YOU DEPART FROM YOUR HOST SCHOOL:

Students who do not receive their transcripts due to unpaid costs or fees associated with their program will not have the suspension lifted; furthermore, credits will not be approved or transferred until unpaid fees are resolved and an official transcript is received.

MONEY

MATTERS Create a Budget and

Plan Ahead. Financial Aid may not be available your first couple

weeks abroad

$$$

To expedite the release of your financial aid the semester following your study abroad, you should request a letter from your host school indicating the completion of courses, signed by your host coordinator. This should be an affidavit that includes the following information:

1. Your full name 2. School of Attendance 3. How many credit hours were attempted 4. Signature and date of host coordinator

Upon returning to UNC, you will need submit this letter, along with an SAP appeal form, to the OFA.

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Updated: 9/30/2019 By: BT

Study Abroad Fees & Payment

Host Program Fees Different program fees and payment methods apply for various programs at UNC. Please check with your Study Abroad Advisor about the method of payment for your specific program. In general, four payment types exist:

1) UNC Exchange Program: pay normal tuition and fees to UNC while paying for room and board upon arrival in the host country (either to the university or to a landlord).

2) UNC Direct Program: pay the host institution directly for tuition & fees; may also pay host for room & board.

3) ISEP Exchange Program: pay all tuition, fees, and room and board charges to UNC at a set rate. 4) Affiliated Provider Program: pay all charges to the program provider. Affiliate Providers are: AIFS, API,

ISA, FIE, USAC, Sol Education, School of Field Studies, Sea Semester, and Semester at Sea.

Study Abroad Fees

Fees Study Abroad Admin Fee

Student Teaching/ FLSA Fee

Application Fee

Method of payment

Ursa Ursa Ursa

Approximate Cost

$250/$350 $400 $50

*Study Abroad Administrative charge varies by program type and will be billed to Ursa for each study abroad term

Withdrawing From Study Abroad Withdrawal Date

Before application deadline

After application deadline, prior to last day of term

After application deadline, after last date of term

Fee $50 $300/$400 App & Admin Fees

$Full or partial payment of program fee

*Students may self-withdraw in the Global Portal any time before the application deadline has passed.

Quiz Yourself

• What is the difference between UNC Direct and UNC Exchange? • Is financial aid guaranteed to come through your first few weeks

abroad? • What must you do to qualify for financial aid while you study abroad?

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Updated: 9/30/2019 By: BT

Important Contacts IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY PLEASE CONTACT

UNC Police Department: +001-970-351-2245

CIE Emergency Phone: +001-970-576-9572

Center for International Education - Study Abroad Office University Center 1110 Campus Box 52 Greeley, CO 80639 Tel: +001-970-351-2396

Hours:

Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm (MST)

Email: Study.Abroad@unco.edu

PERSONAL NOTES The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page” –St. Augustine